Sheffield boxing: Waleed Din heads for Commonwealth title

Waleed Din - one for the future.''Picture by Dan Westwell

Published:22:07

Sheffield flyweight Waleed Din - who The Star revealed last month is being groomed for future fights in America - is to compete for the Commonwealth title against Sunderland-based Thomas Essomba, probably in October at the Magna Centre.

Promoter Dennis Hobson said: “This opportunity has come along, and Waleed wants the big fights and to get to the top as soon as possible. Thomas got a controversial split decision in the amateurs against Waleed but they’re pros now and it will be an absolute cracker. It’s a terrific title for whoever wins to develop on to the international scene. Hobson added: “Waleed could be world class. Some people might say it’s a bit soon but there are only so many learning fights you can have as a flyweight.”

The fight is likely to be televised live on free-to-air digital channel, Spike TV.

Although not having his first amateur bout until he was 17, Din took the unpaid code by storm, winning the 2013 senior ABA light-flyweight title. Turning pro the following year, the 22-year-old has raced to 7-0 - knocking out five opponents in the process - and could be the Steel City’s next big boxing champion.

Essomba though will undoubtedly be a tough test for the upcoming Din.

The Cameroonian, managed by top North East promoter and manager Phil Jeffries, captained his country’s boxing team at the 2012 London Olympic Games and is on a four-fight winning streak since relocating to Wearside.